[The honourable General Knox By fav^r of · New York Nath^s Barrett esq^r] Boston Sept. 16. 1789 Sir This will be handed to you by our friend M^r Barrett, who I understand has applied, by memorial to his Excellency y^e President of the Union, for the Consulate of France. His residence in that Country for a considerable time in the mercantile line, connected with a house of great reputation, and his knowledge of the trade and commercial interests of both Countries, added to his character as a worthy judicious man, do, I presume, well qualify him for that Office; and I believe he would act in it, in a manner, that would not dishonour the Commission. If this idea of M^r Barrett should correspond with your own, your friendship for him, I doubt not, will induce you to second his application for the appointment. As you must be acquainted with M^r Barrett's exertions for promoting the Trade of the United States in France, particularly with regard to y^e procuring a more general use of our whale oil &c, I need only say, that your recollection may be assisted by conversing with him upon that Subject. With great respect I have the honour to be, Sir, Y^r most ob^t hble Serv^t James Bowdoin